Google adds WebVR support to Google Cardboard

WebVR on Chrome allows building virtual reality which works on any device with a browser.

Google today announced that its WebVR on Chrome will support Google Cardboard. This essentially makes it easier for anyone with an Android phone and the virtual reality headset get immersive experience simply by tapping on a link. WebVR allows publishers to build VR content which works on any device which has a browser. The latest integration of the standard with the Google Cardboard opens gateways for the content generation which is seamless.

While WebVR allows one to build 360-degree, VR content which works on any browser via any device, the current browser limitations do not offer a truly immersive experience. Now, this has resulted in the need for specialized content which could be compatible with VR headsets such as the Google Cardboard, Oculus Rift, and HTC VIVE. ALSO READ: Xiaomi Mi VR Play 2 to launch on April 19 in China, will be priced around Rs 1,000

Google first brought VR to the web through its Chrome browser in February. However, back then, the experience was limited to the exuberantly priced Daydream-ready smartphones (read Google Pixel, Pixel XL, Moto Z, Zenfone AR, and Mate 9 Pro), and the Daydream View headset – which is a more refined version of the earlier Cardboard headset which was dirt-cheap at $20 when launched in 2014. With the latest announcement, consumers will be one step closer to affordable immersive experience. Going forward, Google will bring WebVR support on Chrome for desktop headsets like Oculus Rift and HTC VIVE as well.

While there is no dearth of VR hardware, there is a dire need to have content which supports the new technology. Google is providing developers with resources and open source code to help them get started with building interesting and immersive experiences. To stimulate the process, Google has also launched some WebVR Experiments which offer a glimpse into all that is possible to do with WebVR. From games to voice-controlled exploration trips, WebVR Experiments showcase a wide variety of immersive content possible with WebVR.